Savannah: A City Guide for First-Time Tourists

Savannah, Georgia is a city full of culture and history, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. Located on the Atlantic coast, Savannah is the oldest city in the state and is renowned for its classic Southern charm, cobblestone streets, and lush gardens. With a population of around 145,000 people, it is the third-largest city in Georgia and home to many iconic attractions. From peaceful parks to tasty restaurants and museums, Savannah has something for everyone. Let’s explore the best places to go when visiting this enchanting city for the first time.

History of Savannah

Savannah was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe. He was sent by King George II of England to establish a settlement on the Atlantic Coast and chose to settle in Savannah because of its strategic location. The city was part of the 13 American colonies, and during the Revolutionary War, it served as a major port for trade and supplies. During the Civil War, Savannah was the first Confederate city to be captured by Union forces in December of 1864. After the war, the city experienced a period of growth, as more people moved to Savannah to take advantage of the booming shipping industry. Today, Savannah is a major tourism destination and is home to numerous monuments, museums, and parks that honor its rich history and culture.

Attractions in Savannah

One of the most popular attractions in Savannah is the historic district. This area is full of cobblestone streets, lush gardens, and historic buildings that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. It is also home to some of Savannah’s most iconic attractions such as the Savannah Theatre, City Market, River Street, and Forsyth Park.

The Savannah Theatre is one of the oldest theaters in the United States. Built in 1818, it has served as a venue for theater, music, and comedy performances over the years. It is currently home to a variety of shows ranging from musicals to comedy acts. City Market is another popular attraction in Savannah and consists of four blocks of cobblestone streets lined with restaurants and shops selling locally made items. River Street is another popular spot in Savannah and is known for its unique shops and restaurants. The street runs along the Savannah River and offers stunning views of the riverfront area.

Forsyth Park is one of Savannah’s most beloved parks and covers 30 acres in the historic district. The park features historic fountains, lush gardens, and walking trails with stunning views of the city. It is also home to many events throughout the year such as outdoor concerts and festivals.

Activities in Savannah

In addition to its many attractions, Savannah is also known for its outdoor activities. One of the most popular activities is kayaking on the Savannah River where visitors can explore the city from the water. Other activities include biking along the riverfront trail, sailing on a riverboat tour, or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district.

Visitors can also explore one of the many museums in downtown Savannah such as Georgia State Railroad Museum which showcases historic locomotives from across America. Another museum worth visiting is the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum which exhibits artifacts from some of the world’s most famous ships including The Queen Mary and The Titanic.

Savannah also has plenty of shops where visitors can find unique items such as antiques, books, jewelry, clothing, and more. There are also plenty of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines from seafood to Southern comfort food.

Tours in Savannah

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Savannah, there are plenty of tours available that will give you an up-close look at the city’s unique culture and history. One popular tour is a two-hour guided walking tour of Savannah’s historic district which offers an insider’s view of the city’s past as well as its present-day charm. As you walk through cobblestone streets you will learn about famous landmarks such as City Hall Square, Forsyth Park, and Washington Square Park as well as some lesser-known spots such as Secret Garden Park and Juliette Gordon Low’s Grave. You will also get a chance to explore some of Savannah’s iconic buildings such as The Pirates House and The Cotton Exchange Building. At the end of your tour you will have a better understanding of this beautiful city’s rich history and culture.

Another popular tour in Savannah is a two-hour guided walking tour of some of the city’s most famous spots such as Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe Plantation. This tour will take you through some of Savannah’s most picturesque areas while giving you information about its history and culture. You will also get to experience some of its unique architecture such as The Cathedral of St John The Baptist and The Historic Synagogue. At the end of the tour you will have an understanding of what makes Savannah such a unique place to visit.

Conclusion

Savannah offers an alluring blend of modern amenities and classic Southern charm which makes it one of America’s most beloved cities to visit. Whether you are looking to explore its iconic attractions or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and culture, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. From breathtaking parks to amazing restaurants and interesting museums, there is no shortage of things to do in Savannah that will make your visit unforgettable.